Gear Review: Ultimate Direction Scott Jurek (SJ) Vest 2.0

Rear of the vest. Small zippered pockets along the bottom "wings" of the vest offer spacious and secure but slightly inaccessible storage.

The front shoulder straps offer ample storage. the top two grey mesh pockets need to slightly bigger to accommodate the size of newer smartphones. This has been addressed in version 3.0

UD SJ Vest 2.0 fully loaded during the Borneo Ultra Trail Marathon 2016

 There is already so much written about this amazing vest that I won't say more apart from the fact that it really is a very reliable vest to use in training and during races. Capacity is sufficient to hold compulsory race items such as a waterproof jacket, 3 Clif bars, 4 Clif shots, 1 Clif protein bar, a packet of Nuun electrolyte tablets, an iPhone in waterproof case, 3 x Hydrapack 500ml Softflasks, a battery pack, headlamp, reflective vest and basic first aid kit.

Once fitted on properly, there is simply no bounce and follows your body's movement while running. The only niggle i have is that the two small zippered pockets at the bottom of the rear of the pack are quite hard to access while wearing the pack. I have occasionally strained my shoulder while trying to get stuff out of them. I believe the latest version 3.0 has addressed this issue.

If you are the sort that isn't that fussy on having the latest gear or if you are a runner on a budget, look out for the many clearance sales as Ultimate Direction is clearing the way for the latest version 3.0. This vest will offer you a simple and reliable solution to carrying hydration and gear on your next trail adventure.

Pre-Trip Report: Xueshan (Snow Mountain), Taiwan

Xueshan (Snow Mountain), Taiwan. (photo from AMCI Mountaineering Club, Inc)

"Somewhere between the bottom of the climb and the summit

 is the answer to the mystery why we climb." 

- Greg Child

Instead of muttering "Because i want to", I should have probably said something as cool as that when my mom asked me "why do you need to go climb that mountain in Taiwan??"

It is almost 4 weeks more to a long awaited trek to Xueshan or Snow Mountain in Taiwan. It is only the  second-highest peak in Taiwan after Yushan or Jade Mountain, but because of its relatively more accessible routes and more picturesque qualities, Xueshan is one the must-climb mountains in Asia.

With a height of 3886m, it will be the highest summit for me. The only other trek I have done before is to the Crater Rim of Gunung Rinjani at 2639m. And because I will be trekking in winter, it will be my first ever winter mountain trek. This will also be my first totally self-supported trek (i.e. no porters), which is something i have always wanted to do.

An idea that spawned from wedding banquet table talk, I am stoked that this is actually happening. I am going with 2 good mates, both of whom were part of that same conversation 7 months ago. One of them is CW, who has done this route twice before and a bunch of other crazy routes in Taiwan. He just got back from a 10 day solo trek on the Holy Ridge Trail, so he is probably the fittest of the three of us. I am also grateful to my supportive wife who has let me go on this trip with the boys (thanks baby!).

I will be journalling our experiences on the journey, which we will embark on in February 2013. I will also be reviewing gear and kit used during the trip.

Stay tune, and happy trails!

Moleskine Classic Large Squared Notebook (Soft cover)

I love notebooks and Moleskines are one of the best choices when it comes to scribbling your thoughts. 

After using the blank and ruled versions, I find I much prefer the large, soft-covered Moleskine with grids. I have untidy handwriting and the grids help me write neater. It also allows me to make more precise field sketches at work. I also prefer the soft cover as it makes it easier to bring around.

The best place to buy them is online at Books Depository, which provides free international shipping without a minimum purchase.